Canine Behaviorist

Do you have experience and education in socialization and training of shelter dogs?Do you have experience leading, teaching, and guiding a team of employees and volunteers?Are you passionate about helping dogs with behavioral challenges get ready for life in a home? If so, Humane Society Naples (HSN) welcomes your application for the position of Canine Behaviorist. The Canine Behaviorist is responsible for overseeing assessment, socialization, training, and behavioral intervention of shelter dogs using minimally aversive humane methods in order to set them up for success in a home. In addition, the Canine Behaviorist provides high-quality education and training to employees, volunteers, fosters, adopters, and the general public on positive handling of dogs. The Canine Behaviorist is supported by two Canine Behavior Assistants (direct reports) and a team of volunteers. The Canine Behaviorist also works closely and collaboratively with other members of the Animal Care Team and the Veterinary Team to promote the well-being of dogs in shelter and appropriate adoption placement. This position offers an opportunity to creatively build upon and expand an established yet growing behavior and educational program to maximize positive outcomes for dogs in need. Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead, manage, and supervise Canine Behavior Assistants as well as volunteers.
• Oversee assessment of newly arrived dogs.
• Create and manage behavior modification protocols for a wide range of behavioral problems.
• Ensure that every dog has clear and objective behavior notes in the shelter database to support appropriate adoption placement and ultimately shorten length of stay.
• Design individualized training and behavior modification plans for dogs in the shelter, ensure proper implementation, measure progress, and adjust plans as needed.
• Socialize dogs to promote group-housing.
• Oversee canine playgroups ensuring adequate training, participation, and effectiveness.
• Participate in adoption counseling meetings as needed and makes approval recommendations.
• Maintain open and effective communication with Shelter Manager, Dog Care Supervisor, Adoption Coordinator, Veterinarian(s), and others involved in dog care and adoptions.
• Conduct dog handling and training classes for a wide variety of individuals, including paid staff, volunteers, adopters, and foster caregivers.
• Oversee “Cell Dog” program and other programs that promote community goodwill.
• Represent the behavior team and make recommendations in dog management decisions, including euthanasia.
• Provide content for the promotion of adoptable dogs in marketing and fundraising materials

Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong knowledge of canine behavior
• Safe and compassionate dog handling, training, and behavior modification skills utilizing best practices in positive reinforcement and minimally aversive techniques
• Basic understanding of canine medical issues and the impact on behavior
• Strong leadership skills
• Strong public speaking, educational, and training skills for a wide variety of audiences
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects
• Professional and positive team player
• Able to work in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Computer literate; experience with PetPoint preferred
• English fluency required; conversational Spanish or Haitian-Creole skills preferred

Education and Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in the behavioral management of dogs in a shelter setting
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience managing, supervising, and leading a team
• Degree or certification in an animal behavior related field preferred

Schedule:This is a full time job. Currently the shelter is in modified operations and scheduling. Some telework is possible, but the responsibilities of the position require primarily on site work. The successful candidate will be available at least one weekend day and occasional holidays. Compensation:

• Starting salary of $40,000 annually
• A generous benefits package that includes:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance at little cost to you. (Full disclosure: While dependent coverage is available, HSN does not contribute to the cost for adding family members to your plans.)
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays
  • $25,000 life insurance policy at no cost to you
  • Optional enrollment in supplemental insurance plans (disability, accident, etc.)
  • Optional enrollment in 403(b) retirement plan; matching contributions after one year of service
  • Significant discounts on veterinary and boarding services

One last thing before you apply:Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. HSN values diversity and wants to increase the diversity of our team. We are an equal opportunity employer.